Meaning & use

founder

noun·Everyday

A person who establishes an organization, company, institution, or movement.

See it in a sentence

The founder of the company still reviews every major product decision.

Two college roommates were the founders of the charity that now operates in twelve countries.

A note on using this word

As a verb, 'founder' means something quite different: to fail, sink, or collapse, as in 'the negotiations foundered'. Do not confuse it with 'flounder', which means to struggle clumsily.

Words with a similar meaning

creatororiginator

Choose a synonym to suit the sentence. Meanings can overlap without being identical.

Another way to use it

2. verb

To fail or break down completely, or, of a ship, to fill with water and sink.

The peace talks foundered after both sides refused to compromise.

Make it your own

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